Manchester United is on a roll in the Europa League, remaining unbeaten with 8 wins and 5 draws. The team has scored 31 goals and conceded 17.
Ruben Amorim has been at the helm for 7 of those wins and 2 draws. He hasn’t lost a game in UEFA competitions this season, thanks to his previous stint with Sporting where he secured 3 wins and 1 draw in the Champions League.
United’s Europa League campaign is impressive, and they’re likely to make it to the final. The team won 3-0 against Athletic Bilbao in the first leg, and historically, teams that win by 3 or more goals away from home in the first leg have gone on to win the tie 132 times out of 132.
Casemiro’s Evolution
The Red Devils’ Premier League form has been inconsistent, with 2 draws and 3 losses in their last 5 games. However, Amorim’s focus on the Europa League has paid off. One key factor is Bruno Fernandes’ excellent form. He’s scored 7 goals in the competition, making him joint-top scorer alongside Hogh and El Kaabi. Fernandes has also become the competition’s all-time leading assist provider with 18.
Another factor is Casemiro’s adaptation to his new role. Amorim has adjusted his strategy to suit the Brazilian midfielder’s strengths. “We realized he can’t always press high, so we adjusted our tactics,” Amorim said. Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand praised Casemiro’s discipline, saying he’s “sensational” and “didn’t put a foot wrong.” The team’s experienced players, including Bruno and Maguire, helped calm the nerves of younger players like Dorgu and Ugarte in the intense atmosphere of San Mamés.
Casemiro’s experience has been invaluable, and his new role has allowed him to excel. Amorim noted that the Brazilian’s improvement is a lesson for all Manchester United players, showing that past form or recent performances don’t necessarily dictate future results.